Viral shedding is the process by which the virus travels along nerves to the skin, just before blisters erupt. Shedding is also called the prodromal phase. This prodromal phase (viral shedding) can occur without showing signs of an active outbreak, a condition known as asymptomatic shedding.
Those who have suffered from frequent herpes infections recognize the viral shedding phase as the period when headaches, backaches, tingling, and skin sensitivity occur. It's also when emotions may be a little more challenging to control. Unreasonable impatience or sudden tears may come up, often linked to the appearance of blisters. Sometimes, blisters never appear. All of the signs are there for an outbreak that never evolves. However, in some instances, viral shedding can be contagious while herpes is en route to the surface, whether or not blisters ever appear (see below).
Additionally, just because you can't see or feel any blisters doesn't mean they aren't there. Herpes blisters can arise inside the vagina and the rectum. So, whenever you feel you're coming down with herpes symptoms, even if you can't see any lesions, avoid being sexually active with others until the symptoms or feelings pass. You can be fine one day and develop blisters the next. So, never assume that what you think is just a random ache or pain isn't herpes. Not everyone has noticeable symptoms, and no one can ever be 100% sure they won't accidentally pass herpes on to someone else.
Even without signs of viral shedding (aches, tingling or itching, headaches, backaches, or moodiness), herpes can still be transmitted when symptoms are minimal or absent. How?
How Can Herpes Be Transferred to Another Person With No Lesions Present?
A person can contract HSV during shedding, even without lesions, because the virus is physically present on the skin surface. Even without a blister or ulcer, a small area of skin or mucosa can harbor infectious viral particles. If that area touches another person's susceptible tissue, the virus can enter the body. What would be considered susceptible tissue? Skin is a strong barrier, but it isn't perfect. Tiny tears, microscopic cracks, irritation, shaving nicks, friction, or naturally thinner tissues (such as the genital, anal, or oral mucosa) can let the virus reach nerve endings.
The virus doesn't need a visible sore to infect someone else. A sore is basically a larger outbreak in which infected cells are damaged, and the immune system reacts. During asymptomatic viral shedding, there may not be enough local damage to create a noticeable lesion, but enough virus may be released to infect someone. For example, a person can be contagious with a cold before they look sick (runny nose, watery eyes, cough) because the virus is already being released. With HSV, the "contagious period" can sometimes happen without the outward signs.
Additionally, some people shed more or less often than others do. Differences in both the virus and a person's immune-related genes can affect how frequently shedding happens.
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